40 for 40 Challenge

Celebrating 40 Years by Giving Back

      March 1, 2016 Tony Thanoukos and family will be celebrating 40 years at Hub’s Restaurant in Skokie! We not only want to celebrate Tony’s accomplishments and achievements but also continue the legacy of his imprint on the surrounding community.  

Tony’s life began as quite a struggle, growing up poor in Stadio, Greece and not knowing when the next meal would come.  After some help from extended family who had migrated earlier to America, he was able at 16, to come to the place where the pavements were lined with gold. Hard work and determination allowed him to break through stereotypes and language barriers to finally have a business of his own. He and his brother were proud to purchase Hub’s and work behind that counter 7 days a week. Later they were able to purchase two more locations turning them into Hub’s II and III before selling and splitting the business but there was and still is much accomplishment to be celebrated. Having won Silver Platter awards, being featured on TWO Saturday Night Live Skits “You like it da juice, “ being ranked top 10 places to eat in Skokie by Yelp, ranked top 6 Gyros places by Eater, winning beautification awards year after year and many more.

            Tony’s dedication shines through all of his achievements but also by just the simple man behind the counter trying to make sure everyone who comes hungry is every bit satisfied with their experience and most of all the food. From Greek recipes passed down by grandmothers, to creative burger specials, BBQ sauces and rib rubs, soups and chili made daily his aim is to please and for 40 years Tony has done just that! But it doesn’t stop there. Growing up poor, in a village surrounded by those in the same position where one couldn’t see the light at the end of the tunnel, his history left a very large imprint on his heart. Once his children were old enough to understand, Tony, along with this wife, Ann, taught their children the importance of giving back. Whether it was a homeless person who needed a coat and warm soup, a soup kitchen that needed food or a homeless shelter that needed donations (of any kind) just to get through the day, the message was clear … “You must give back, you must do something and you must leave your own imprint.”

            With those words engraved in our minds, we, his children, are asking YOU to not only help us in CELEBRATING the Legacy our father has created but also help us in continuing to leave that wonderful imprint of helping those in need. Those who if they just had that extra chance, that one moment to shine could move forward and upward in their own lives. A little confidence, a little extra care goes a long way and we would love for all of you to be a part of this great venture!

            If you are able to help (even the smallest amount leads to great movements) we would be so greatly moved and appreciate all of you who will take part in this endeavor. We have begun 40 for 40 in hopes that 40 business (restaurants, hotels, banks, anyone) will sign up and take part in helping us leave a greater impact. They say it takes a village and we agree. In this case, we hope our community and those around us can really help us to make that impact and to affect change. To give those who need a helping hand, that leg up to begin their lives with grace, humility and encouragement. 

            A few hours of volunteering, a couple of dollars from your pocket, bagged lunches from your book club or association you’re involved with – ALL MAKE A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE!

            We ask that all who plan to participate do so as soon as they can as we will be featuring all of you prior to March 1, 2016 as partners in our efforts! We look forward to hearing from everyone and helping us not only honor a great man but continue his great legacy!